Article by Carly Mac Manus
Photography by Charissa H. Yong

Originally published in Pascack Valley City Lifestyle

When Brian Nacht launched Dicey’s Spicy, it wasn’t just another hot sauce brand hitting the shelves. It was a deeply personal project born out of a lifetime of culinary passion, a love for bringing people together through food, and an entrepreneurial spirit shaped by 15 years in the food import industry.

Nacht’s journey to founding Dicey’s Spicy began in the kitchen. Growing up, he honed his culinary skills with his parents—grilling with his dad and experimenting with recipes alongside his mom. Later, his love for cooking found its way into gatherings with friends in New York City, where he became known for hosting late-night pizza parties.

It was during one such gathering in 2023, for the NFL draft, that inspiration struck. Nacht experimented with flavors, creating a spicy Russian dressing-style sauce to complement a Reuben pizza. That one concoction—a blend of roasted jalapeños and creamy goodness—was a hit, and friends encouraged him to turn it into a business.

“I’ve always been passionate about food, but I never wanted to open a restaurant,” Nacht says. “The sauce idea was a way to channel my creativity without the demands of a brick-and-mortar space.”

From Passion to Product
Drawing on his expertise in supply chains and food manufacturing, Nacht spent a year perfecting his recipe and designing his brand. He created everything himself, from the bold orange checkered label inspired by New York City taxis and delis to the white kraft mailer boxes that make every delivery feel special.

“My goal was to create a product that stands out on a shelf and excites customers when they see it at their doorstep,” he says.

Launched in September 2024, Dicey’s Spicy is already making waves. Available online and at select local retailers, the sauce is gaining a loyal following. Nacht’s community has been instrumental in this success—neighbors, friends, and family have supported the brand by purchasing bottles and spreading the word.

Local Roots, Big Impact
Now a resident of Bergen County, Nacht is committed to fostering local connections. His partnership with Casa Del Sol in Woodcliff Lake, a neighborhood deli, highlights his dedication to building relationships with other small businesses. Dicey’s Spicy is featured on Casa’s shelves and menu, enhancing its sandwiches with a local touch.

“Food brings people together,” Nacht says. “Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a deli sandwich, I love seeing how my sauce becomes part of someone’s experience.”

Nacht’s entrepreneurial journey is also a family affair. He involves his young daughter, who proudly dons a Dicey’s Spicy hat during local deliveries, turning the business into a teaching moment about hard work and creativity.